Appliance having a user interface panel and a beverage dispenser

ABSTRACT

An appliance including a housing, a dispenser, and a water supply mechanism. The appliance includes a drink supply mechanism configured to removably hold a plurality of drink supply containers, a user interface panel, and a computer. The computer is configured to: cause the user interface panel to display a plurality of different images, each image associated with a different one of a plurality of different beverages which correspond to a drink supply in at least one of the plurality of drink supply containers held by the drink supply mechanism, enable the user interface panel to receive an input from a user of a selected one of the plurality of different displayed images, and after receiving the input from the user of the selected one of the plurality of different displayed images, cause the dispenser to dispense the beverage corresponding to the selected image.

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application is a continuation of, claims priority to and thebenefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/346,204, filed on Jan. 9,2012, which is a continuation of, claims priority to and the benefit ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/817,680, filed on Jun. 17, 2010, nowU.S. Pat. No. 8,103,378, which is a continuation of, claims priority toand the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/422,514, filed onJun. 6, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,754,025, which is a continuation of,claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/930,306, filed on Aug. 31, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,204,259, whichis a continuation of, claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/035,734, filed on Oct. 22, 2001, now U.S. Pat.No. 6,799,085, which is a continuation of, claims priority to and thebenefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/790,349, filed on Feb.21, 2001, now abandoned, which is a continuation-in-part of, claimspriority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/589,725, filed on Jun. 8, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,751,525, theentire contents of which are each incorporated herein by reference.

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is related to the following commonly owned co-pendingpatent applications: “Appliance with Dispenser,” Ser. No. 13/______,Attorney Docket No. 025105-0051.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains or maycontain material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyrightowner has no objection to the photocopy reproduction by anyone of thepatent document or the patent disclosure in exactly the form it appearsin the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwisereserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

DESCRIPTION

The present invention relates in general to a system and method fordistributing and dispensing or using appliance supplies or products, andin particular to a distribution and dispensing system which facilitatesdispensing or using one or more supplies by an appliance, which trackssupply use, which automatically orders supplies as necessary, whichfacilitates the delivery of supplies to the users, which enables theusers to determine supply usage, which enables users to change thesupplies, and which reduces the need to store conventional supplycontainers.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Many households in the United States and throughout the world usesupplies or appliance supplies on a daily basis in connection withappliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, clothing dryers,dishwashing machines, water filters, furnaces and humidifiers. Typicalappliance supplies include consumable products such as laundrydetergents, dish washing detergents, fabric softeners, bleaches, dryingsheets, beverages, food products and filters. To maintain an adequatesupply of such appliance supplies, consumers must continuously supplytheir homes with various packaged products. This task can be relativelyburdensome for families which experience a large consumption of suchproducts or appliance supplies, in part because the appliance supplycontainers are often somewhat heavy and the appliance supply containersoccupy substantial space in or near the appliances. Additionally, thecost in dollars and the time spent in purchasing such appliance supplieson an annual basis can be significant. Accordingly, there is a need foran appliance supply distribution and dispensing system.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides an appliance supply distribution anddispensing system which solves the above problems by enabling users toobtain one or more supplies for an appliance, and which tracks,automatically orders and delivers or distributes the products orsupplies used or dispensed by the appliances to the homes of the usersof the present system. The appliance supply distribution and dispensingsystem of the present invention is referred to herein for brevityalternatively as the “system,” “distribution system,” “dispensingsystem” or the “appliance supply dispensing system.” However, the scopeof the present invention is not intended to be limited by suchabbreviated terms or the use of any other abbreviated terms used hereinto describe the present invention or components, steps or processesthereof.

Generally, the system of the present invention includes a plurality ofappliance supply dispensing apparatuses housed in a plurality ofappliances, at least one order processing system which communicates withthe appliance supply dispensing apparatuses through a suitablecommunication channel and one or more supplier systems which communicatewith the order processing system through a suitable communicationchannel. For purposes of this application, the present invention in partwill be described in relation to one appliance supply dispensingapparatus, one ordering processing system and one supplier system. Itshould be appreciated that the system of the present invention includesa plurality of dispensing apparatuses in the appliances of multipleusers, a plurality of order processing systems and a plurality ofsupplier systems which are preferably, but not necessarily, located inthe geographic vicinity of the users to facilitate rapid and lessexpensive delivery of the ordered appliance supply containers to usersof the system. Delivery by local suppliers or distributors will alsoconform to current business agreements between certain distributors andsuppliers.

The appliance supply dispensing apparatus in the appliance is adapted todispense or use at least one, and depending on the appliance, aplurality of appliance supplies pre-selected by the user. The appliancesupply dispensing apparatus preferably includes an appliance supplydispensing or use computer, processor or appliance computer, a userinterface panel or terminal (if necessary) connected to the dispensingprocessor, a dispenser or appliance supply mixing mechanism (ifnecessary) connected to the appliance supply dispensing processor, andone or more appliance supply mechanisms or apparatuses connected to thedispenser. The appliance supply mechanism preferably includes one ormore housings for storing one or more appliance supply containers or thesupply itself, and one or more actuators such as pumps or other suitablemechanisms (if necessary) for drawing or otherwise directing theappliance supply from the appliance supply containers or housing. Thesystem of the present invention may be implemented in any appliancewhich dispenses or uses a consumable product or supply such as aconsumable packageable product or supply.

One example of an appliance which may be used in conjunction with thepresent invention is a washing machine, The washing machine includes adetergent supply mechanism. The detergent supply mechanism includes ahousing for storing detergent and preferably one or more detergentsupply containers or canisters and a suitable mechanism for releasingthe detergent supply from the detergent supply container or housing. Thewashing machine preferably includes one user readily accessible housingadapted to hold the detergent supply containers. This enables the userto easily change the detergent supply containers. The detergent supplycontainers are also preferably suitably sized to fit within the housingand are suitably sized for shipment via conventional delivery services.

The detergent dispensing apparatus in the washing machine dispenses thedetergent as necessary for each wash or washing cycle. The supplydispensing computer in the washing machine preferably tracks (by timing,number of washes or dispenses or other suitable tracking events) thevolume of detergent supply dispensed by the dispenser from eachdetergent supply container, When the supply levels decrease below apredetermined level (i.e., preferably within three days of depletionbased on normal or average usage), the dispensing computer automaticallysends an order for one or more new detergent supply containers to theorder processing system, When the new detergent supply containers aredelivered to the consumer's home, the consumer replaces the useddetergent supply containers with the new detergent supply containers,preferably when the dispensing computer and interface inform the userthat the detergent supply or supply is empty. It should be appreciatedthat the present invention contemplates any suitable supply levelindicator such as a light, to inform the user to replace the supplycontainer.

It should also be appreciated that the washing machine (or any appliancein accordance with the present invention) could include multipledispensing mechanisms (and one or more indicators) for differentsupplies or products such as different detergents or different types ofproducts (i.e., detergents, bleaches and fabric softeners). Thedispensing computer or appliance computer could monitor all of theseproducts or appliance supplies and make the appropriate orders asnecessary.

In another example, the system of the present invention may beimplemented in a refrigerator where appliance supplies are preferablymixed or combined to form a final product such as a ready to drinkbeverage. The refrigerator includes a CO₂ gas supply mechanism, a drinksupply mechanism and a water supply mechanism connected to a dispenser.The CO₂ supply mechanism includes a housing for storing one or more CO₂supply containers or canisters and a suitable mechanism for releasingthe CO₂ gas from the CO₂ supply containers. The drink supply mechanismincludes a housing for storing one or more drink supply containers orcanisters and a suitable mechanism for releasing the drink supply fromthe drink supply containers. One or more readily accessible housingscould be adapted to hold both the drink supply containers and CO₂ supplycontainers. This enables the user to easily change the drink supplycontainers and CO₂ supply containers, The drink supply containers andCO₂ supply containers are also preferably suitably sized to fit withinthe housing and are suitably sized for shipment via conventionaldelivery services.

The beverage dispensing apparatus in the refrigerator forms thebeverages from the water supply, drink supply, and if the drink iscarbonated, the CO₂ gas supply. The supply dispensing computer in therefrigerator preferably tracks (by timing) the volume of drink supplydispensed by the dispenser from each drink supply container. Thedispensing computer may additionally track (by timing) the volume of CO₂gas dispensed from each CO₂ supply container. When supply levelsdecrease below a predetermined level (i.e., preferably within three daysof depletion based on normal or average usage), the dispensing computerautomatically sends an order for one or more new drink supply containers(and possibly one or more new CO₂ supply containers) to the orderprocessing system. When the new drink and CO₂ supply containers aredelivered to the consumer's home, the consumer replaces the used drinksupply containers with the new drink supply containers and replaces theused CO₂ supply containers with the new CO₂ supply containers,preferably when the dispensing computer and interface (or other supplylevel indicator) inform the user that the drink supply or CO₂ supply isempty.

The appliance's dispensing computer or appliance computer and userinterface panel or terminal preferably coact to enable the user toregister as a user with the order processing system, order additionalsupplies as desired, and to change the supplies dispensed by theappliance. For instance, if the user wants to try a new supply orproduct, the user enters such an order through the user interface panel.Furthermore, if the appliance or part thereof such as the dispensingapparatus breaks down or has any mechanical or technical problems, thesystem can be adapted to automatically order repair services, whichcauses a repair service to contact the user, determine an acceptablerepair date and to repair the appliance on the repair date.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing computer orappliance computer directly communicates with the order processingsystems through communication channels such as existing telephone lines,cable lines, wireless communications or the internet. In a preferredembodiment of the present invention, the dispensing or appliancecomputer communicates with a home area or home gateway network in thehome of the user which facilitates communication between homeappliances, audio and visual equipment, and computing devices, Such homegateway networks enable users to monitor and control all of theelectronic equipment in their homes. The home gateway network in turncommunicates over a suitable communication channel with the orderprocessing systems. It should be appreciated that all of the appliancesin a home or business may use the same or different ordering processingsystems to order various types of supplies or products.

After an appliance having the dispensing apparatus of the presentinvention is installed in a user's home or other location and thedispensing or appliance computer establishes communication with theappropriate order processing system indirectly through the home gatewaynetwork or directly through another suitable communication channel, theuser uses the user interface panel to select one or more supplies. Thesystem automatically orders appropriate supplies (if the appliance ispurchased without such supplies). Preferably within three days, thesupply system delivers the ordered supplies to the user and the userinstalls the supply containers in the appliance supply dispensingapparatus to begin to dispense the supply or products. The dispensingcomputer monitors the level of supply and orders more supply when thesupply reaches certain predetermined levels.

The appropriate order processing system receives and processes ordersfrom a plurality of dispensing or appliance computers and transmits theorders to the appropriate supplier systems which are designated to servethe users. The order processing system generally includes a server orprocessor for receiving and processing the orders from the dispensingcomputers and for sending the orders to the supply systems, a datastorage device for storing historic order and consumption information aswell as appliance supply and other information, access terminals andinput/output devices.

The supplier system receives orders from the order processing system forparticular users (preferably in a predetermined geographic region) andfacilitates the delivery of supplies to such users of the system of thepresent invention. The supplier system generally includes a server orprocessor for receiving the selected orders from the order processingsystem and for facilitating order fulfillment, access terminals andinput/output devices. The supplier system also facilitates or provides adeliverer for delivering the supply containers to the user and providesfor repair services for the appliances. Any suitable deliverer maydeliver the supply container to the user; however, preferably theappliance supplies are delivered by a common carrier such as the postalservice, United Parcel Service, Federal Express, etc. It should beappreciated that while the appliance supply containers or canisterscould be of any suitable size, in the preferred embodiments of thepresent invention, they are suitably sized for such commercial shipmentand to fit in the appropriate housing in the appliance.

The system of the present invention enables a user or consumer to samplea plurality of various supplies which the user may not ordinarily havethe ability to sample or obtain. For a variety of reasons, many supplyproducts are unavailable to consumers in many parts of the United Statesand in many parts of the world. The system provides an interface throughwhich the user can select any supply which is supplied by theimplementor of the system. The present invention makes a plurality ofsupplies available to the user including supplies not generallyavailable in the user's geographic area. The present invention thusprovides a direct appliance supply distribution system to the user ofthe system as well as an appliance supply sampling system which enablesusers of the system to sample products on a regular basis includingproducts or appliance supplies the user would not normally be exposedto.

It should also be appreciated that the present invention prevents wasteof supplies and supply containers. The dispensing apparatus enables theuser to dispense the exact amount of supply which the user desires andenables the user to easily obtain more supply if desired. The presentinvention thereby eliminates much of the waste of unfinished supplycontainers such as carbonated beverages that tend to lose theircarbonation or go “flat” after the container is opened.

Accordingly, the appliance supply distribution and dispensing system ofthe present invention: (a) employs an appliance to facilitate dispensingor use of one or more supplies selected by the user; (b) tracks thesupply usage; (c) automatically orders additional supplies as necessary;(d) enables the users to monitor appliance supply consumption; (e)enables the user to select the appliance supplies from a large number ofavailable supplies and to sample a wide variety of supplies; (f) enablesthe user to change the supplies dispensed; (g) facilitates directdelivery of supply or supply containers to the user; (h) orders repairsas necessary; (i) notifies users of new supplies available through thesystem; (j) reduces the need to store conventional supply containers;(k) reduces supply waste; (I) reduces waste of containers and containermaterials by providing the same amount of supplies in smaller and fewercontainers; and (m) reduces the need for homeowners, consumers,customers and other users of the system (referred to herein as “users”)to purchase for their homes containers of numerous different types ofsupplies such as detergents, dishwashing liquids and beverages.

It is therefore an advantage of the present invention to provide anappliance supply distribution and dispensing system.

A further advantage of the present invention is to provide an appliancesupply distribution and dispensing system which dispenses or uses one ormore supplies in an appliance.

Another advantage of the present invention is to provide an appliancesupply distribution and dispensing system which automatically reorderssupplies.

Yet another advantage of the present invention is to provide anappliance supply distribution and dispensing system which enables usersto determine supply use, order additional supplies and to changesupplies used by appliances.

Other objects, features and advantages of the invention will be apparentfrom the following detailed disclosure, taken in conjunction with theaccompanying sheets of drawings, wherein like numerals refer to likeparts, elements, components, steps and processes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the system of thepresent invention;

FIGS. 2A through 2E are schematic diagrams of alternative embodiments ofthe system of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of one appliance embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIGS. 4A to 4J are illustrations of interfaces accessible to the user inan example of one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is an schematic diagram of an example of a multi-applianceembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the dispensing computer, orderprocessing system and supply system of one embodiment of the system ofthe present invention;

FIG. 7 is a more detailed schematic diagram of one preferred embodimentof the architecture of the computer and communication systems of thepresent invention;

FIGS. 8, 8A and 8B are flow diagrams of the operation of one embodimentof the system of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a table illustrating data transmitted to and from the serverand data stored on the server of one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 10 is a top plan view of one refrigerator embodiment of the presentinvention; and

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of one refrigerator embodiment of thepresent invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring now to the drawings and in particular to FIG. 1, oneembodiment of the appliance supply distribution and dispensing system ofthe present invention, generally indicated by numeral 10, includes oneor more appliances 12 which communicate with one or more orderprocessing systems 14 through a dispenser communication channel 16. Theorder processing system(s) 14 communicate with one or more suppliersystems 18 through a suitable communication channel 20. The suppliersystem(s) 18 provide one or more supplies 22 to the user of theappliance(s) 12 in response to an order. Each appliance 12 which isinstalled with a supply 22 preferably includes an appliance computer orsupply dispensing computer 24, supply 22 and a supply dispenser 26. Thesupply dispensing computer may be adapted communicate with either orboth the supply 22 or supply dispenser 26.

A user inserts supply 22 into a supply housing (not shown) within, orconnected to or associated with the appliance 12. The appliance 12 isadapted to use the supply 22 for purposes such as washing items, rinsingitems or producing beverages. Preferably, the appliance 12 includes asupply dispenser 26 for dispensing supply 22. However, it should beappreciated that certain supplies, such as water treatment supplies,filters and batteries are used but not necessarily dispensed when used,These types of supplies 22 are used directly within their supplyhousings (not shown). As a user consumes or uses supply 22, theappliance or dispenser computer 24 preferably tracks the decreasingamount of supply 22.

When the supply 22 reaches a predetermined depletion level or if a usermakes an input or request, the appliance or dispensing computer 24transmits a supply order to the order processing system 14. The orderprocessing system 14 processes the order, and if acceptable, transmitsthe order along communication channel 20 to the supplier system 18. Thesupplier system 18 then delivers supply 22 to the appliance 12.

It should be appreciated that the system 10 can also deliver services tothe appliance in response to a service order transmitted by theappliance or dispensing computer.

It should also be appreciated that the system can include variouscombinations of appliances 12, order processing systems 14 and suppliersystems 18 for various scenarios. For example, a single order processingsystem 14 could serve various types of appliances 12 or supplies 22 asillustrated in FIG. 2A. Alternatively, the system 10 could include asingle order processing system 14 for each type of appliance 12 orsupply 22 as illustrated in FIG. 2B. Similarly, a single supplier system18 could serve various types of appliances 12 and supplies 22 asillustrated in FIG. 20, Alternatively, the system 10 could include asingle supplier system 18 for each type of appliance 12 or supply 22, asillustrated in FIG. 2D, Also, as illustrated in FIG. 2E, different orderprocessing systems 14 and supplier systems 18 can serve a singleappliance 12 which has needs for different types of supplies 22.

It should be appreciated that the dispenser communication channel 16 andsupply communication channel 20 could be the same communication channelor the same data network such as the internet, as discussed below.

Appliance

As illustrated in FIG. 3, in one embodiment of the present invention,the appliance 12 includes an appliance supply dispensing apparatus 28and standard mechanisms for such an appliance and is specificallyconstructed, structurally and electrically, to house and accommodate thesupply dispensing apparatus 28. The supply dispensing apparatus 28preferably includes: (i) a supply dispensing computer or processor 24;(ii) a user interface panel or terminal 34; (iii) a dispensing mechanism30; (iv) a supply mechanism, apparatus or dispenser 26; (v) a housing 32for storing supply or one or more supply containers 33; (vi) a pluralityof electrical communication lines 36; and (vii) one or more supply fluidcommunication lines 38. These components are preferably mounted atsuitable places in appliance; however, it should be appreciated that oneor more of these components could be mounted in a housing adjacent tothe appliance in accordance with the present invention.

Dispensing Computer

The dispensing computer, appliance computer or processor 24 of thepresent invention, as described in more detail below, monitors alldispensing or depletion of supplies, the amount of supply remaining, thesupplies ordered, the total supply use or consumption for each type ofsupply and all inputs or changes to the system or appliance supplyrequested by the user.

In one embodiment of the system of the present invention, the appliancesupply dispensing processor 24 communicates directly with the server inthe order processing system 14 via a dial-up connection or modem. Inanother embodiment of the present invention, the appliance supplydispensing processor 24 communicates indirectly with the server in theorder processing system via a dial-up connection to an internet accessprovider which enables connectivity to the server, In a furtherembodiment of the present invention, the supply dispensing processor 24communicates indirectly with the server in the order processing systemvia a home gateway server using a direct dial-up connection. In a stillfurther embodiment of the present invention, the appliance supplydispensing processor 24 communicates indirectly with the server in theorder processing system via a home gateway server using an indirectdial-up connection to an internet access provider which enablesconnectivity to the server. In a still further embodiment of the presentinvention, the appliance supply dispensing processor 24 communicatesindirectly with the server in the order processing system via a homegateway server using an indirect Ethernet home network internetconnection with enables connectivity to the central server. As furtherdiscussed below, in any of these embodiments, the supply dispensingprocessor 24 automatically communicates orders generated by the supplydispensing processor 24, user registration information, user ordersgenerated by the user, repair orders and user consumption and useinformation to the order processing system 14.

User Interfaces

In one embodiment of the present invention, the system communicates withthe user through the user interface panel or terminal 34 which ispreferably a conventional touch screen adapted to display a plurality ofinterfaces. Alternatively, other user interfaces such as selections,buttons, lights, indicators, or other suitable mechanical or electronicdevices may be used in conjunction with the present invention. The usercan use the interface or interface panel 34 or other devices to causethe appliance to use a supply or product. It should also be appreciatedthat the appliance could automatically dispense or use a supply orproduct, such as dispensing one type of washing detergent (from aplurality of different detergents) when different washing cycles areused. For energy saving purposes, the user interface panel 34 or thesupply dispensing apparatus 12 preferably includes a motion detector orsensor (not shown) in the appliance. The motion sensor detects when auser approaches the appliance and causes the user panel to illuminatethe touch screen when the user approaches the appliance.

The user panel is adapted to display a plurality of interfaces to theuser as illustrated in FIGS. 4A through 4J. The initial interfaceincludes one or more products or selections. However, it should beappreciated that the number of selections may vary in accordance withthe present invention. In the example base or primary interface 40 aillustrated in FIG. 4A and displayed by the user interface panel 34, theselections 42 include SUPPLY A-2, SUPPLY B-1, SUPPLY C-2, SUPPLY D-3,SUPPLY E-2 and SUPPLY F-6. The user may touch any of these selections 42to dispense a supply or to cause the appliance to dispense a supply. Itshould also be appreciated that in one embodiment of the presentinvention, only one selection 42 may be available such as one type ofdishwashing soap in a dishwasher,

This primary interface 40 a also includes several other commandsincluding a back or return command 44 a which causes the user panel todisplay a previous interface, a forward command 44 b which causes theuser panel to display the next interface, a change brands command 44 cwhich causes the user interface panel 34 to display the interfaces whichenable the user to order different brands of supply and to physicallychange supply, a question command 44 d which causes the user interfacepanel 34 to display interface contact information for the user includingwho to contact if the user has questions, a home command 44 e whichcauses the user interface panel 34 to display an interface whichprovides information regarding the use or consumption of supply throughthe system in the user's appliance and an information command 44 f whichcauses the user interface panel 34 to display interfaces which enablethe user to find out more information regarding supply available throughthe system. Commands 44 a to 44 f are preferably accessible from everyuser interface, as illustrated in FIGS. 4A through 4J, to enable theuser to navigate through the system and perform the functions providedby the system. It should be appreciated that additional functions oroptions could be added to the system and to the interfaces.

For instance, although not shown, the present invention contemplatesproviding the user an interface which enables the user to order extrasupplies. The interface preferably enables the user to select the supplyand input the date of an event and the other information about theevent. The system could be adapted to assist the user in determining thenecessary volumes of supply based on standard volume calculations. Thesystem preferably also ensures that the user receives the necessarysupplies by sending a message to the user which is displayed on thepanel a predetermined number of days before the event. The predeterminednumber of days would preferably enable the system enough time to sendanother order if necessary. It should be appreciated that the orderprocessing system preferably includes a message screen with an O.K.indicator or other feature which is adapted to display other messages,information and advertisements for the user, sent over the dispensercommunication channel to the dispensing computer, which the dispensingcomputer will display at designated times. It should also beappreciated, as discussed below, that the dispensing computer and thepanel will provide the user with an interface for registration with theorder processing system and may include a touch screen keyboard forenabling the user to type messages and send the messages to anadministrator of the order processing system.

As illustrated in FIG. 4B, if the user presses the change brands command44 c, the dispensing computer displays a change brands interface 40 b.The change brands interface 40 b identifies or lists a plurality oftypes of supplies which the user can choose from through the system 10.These are generally categorized into appropriate categories. However, itshould be appreciated that any type of supply or product may be added tothe list if the system dispenses that type of supply or product. Whenthe user touches one of the supplies, the user panel displays aselection interface 40 c as illustrated in FIG. 4C. The selectioninterface 40 c shows the variety of product or brand selections 42 b inthe selected category. For instance, the interface illustrates sixbrands of supplies which the user can select through the system. If allof the selections do not fit on one screen, additional selectioninterfaces can be provided and the user will use the backwards orforwards commands 44 a and 44 b to view all of the available supplyselections.

After the user selects a product or supply brand which the user wouldlike to obtain, the dispensing computer displays the replacement brandinterface 40 d as illustrated in FIG. 4D. The replacement brandinterface 40 d displays the user's current selection of supply brands.Specifically, the system uses this interface to ask the user which brandthe user wants to replace. The user preferably selects one of the sixprimary selections 42 b for replacement. It should be appreciated thatthe present invention contemplates having a different number ofselections and suitable interfaces associated with such selections.After the user selects a brand to replace, the dispensing computerprovides a replacement confirmation screen interface 40 e as illustratedin FIG. 4E. This interface asks the user to confirm or cancel the orderwhich replaces one type of product, in this case SUPPLY E-2, withanother type of product, in this case SUPPLY C-3, If the user pressesthe OK button 44 g, the dispensing computer sends the order to the orderprocessing system. If the user presses the CANCEL command 44 h, thedispensing computer does not send the order and preferably returns theuser to the change brands interface 40 b.

The dispensing computer replaces the new supply selection logo on theprimary interface when the new supply is delivered to the user and theuser inserts the new supply into the housing 32 in the appliance. Achange brands interface (not shown) or an additional interface isprovided to the user for the user to inform the dispensing computer thatthe user is changing or replacing a supply container. In one embodiment,this could include an authorization code. Alternatively, the dispensingapparatus could read a bar code or other label on the supply containerthat informs the dispensing computer of the change as further discussedbelow. Preferably, the interface provides a message screen which informsthe user how to change the supply and specifically (if applicable) inwhich slot the old supply which needs to be replaced is located. Eachslot preferably is numbered, lettered, has other indicia or has analternative designation for identifying the slot to the user anddistinguishing the slots. The interface may also provide a changecanister command which the user presses when the user is going to changea supply container.

If the user presses the “I” or information command 44 f, the user canobtain information about the user's use of the system though aconsumption interface 40 f illustrated in FIG. 4F. The dispensingcomputer tracks the average daily consumption or use history for eachsupply dispensed by the dispenser. For each supply, the systempreferably displays the number of uses of the supply, the amount of eachuse, and the total volume of the dispensed supply. This system couldalso be used by the user to determine if too much of one supply and notenough of another supply is being consumed.

if the user presses the question mark command 44 d, the dispensingcomputer displays a contact interface 40 g which includes contactinformation such as a telephone number as illustrated in FIG. 4G whichthe user can use to contact the implementor of the order processingsystem or the supplier system.

The user can also use the “I” or information command 40 f to find outmore information about certain products or supplies. By pressing theinformation command 40 f, the user can obtain the information interface40 h which lists all of the different types of products or suppliesavailable through the system. If the user wants to find out moreinformation regarding a beverage, the user touches one of the types ofsupplies, and the system displays a supply selection interface 40 iwhich lists supply and the logos for supply in the area as illustratedin FIG. 41.

If the user wants to find out more information about a particularsupply, the user can press the logo of the supply and the system willdisplay an information interface 40 j which includes a specificinformation screen regarding the selected supply as illustrated in FIG.4J. In particular, this interface may include a logo and textualinformation or in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the interfacewould be able to display a visual JPEG file or an audiovisual MPEG file.The JPEG or MPEG files could be downloaded into the system duringcommunication with the order processing system on a regular basis, orthese files could be downloaded from the order processing system upon arequest from the user. The JPEG or MPEG file will be able to displayphotographs or audiovisual works such as a commercial regarding theselected supply. The commercials or other information provided to theuser could be selected on a national, regional, geographic or individualuser basis. For instance, the system could provide information inSpanish to Spanish speaking users. Accordingly, the present invention isadapted to provide consumers with more information regarding brands ofsupplies and other information. The present invention also thus enablesmanufacturers to directly promote brands or supplies directly to theconsumers or users of the system, Based on knowing the supply use in ahome, the system could be adapted to provide information or free supplysamples to consumers to influence their future purchasing. The systemcould also be used to provide information regarding other products orservices to the user.

It should be appreciated that the system could be adapted to provideeach individual in a household having the system with a separate usercode which would enable the system to track individual use onconsumption. The individual would enter this code each time the userused a supply, for instance, when obtaining a drink, washing clothes,washing dishes or using any appliances supported by the system,

It should also be appreciated that the user interface panel could serveother functions such as enabling the user to adjust temperatures orother conditions in an appliance.

It should further be appreciated that the user interface panel mayprovide the user with access to the internet, multimedia entertainmentand other commercial information through the panel and suitable speakersinstalled in or on the appliance.

Communication Channels and the Home Network

With reference to FIG. 5, in one embodiment of the present invention thesystem 10 a reaches a user's home 46, includes a home gateway server 48for communicating to one or more appliances 12 a through 12 e. Eachdispensing computer 24 a through 24 e in the home 46 and at least onepersonal computer 50 in the home 46 preferably will communicate with thehome gateway server 48 via wireless communications 236 or via hardwirelines (not shown) in the home 16, The system thus preferably includes alocal area network (LAN), and specifically a home area network (HAN)designed to network home appliances, audio and visual equipment, andcomputing devices. The dispensing computers use the network to transmitorders for supply containers 33 a through 33 d to the order processingsystem 14.

Because HAN is presently largely unavailable in homes and because commonresidential internet access is often slow and sometimes unreliable, thedispensing computer may communicate directly over the communicationchannel via a server dial-in, telephone line connection. Thus, if thehome does not include a home gateway server, the dispensing computerwould preferably include a modem (not shown) which enables thedispensing computer to exchange data or directly communicate with theorder processing system 14 via communication channel 16. The modem wouldbe electrically connected to telephone (not shown) which would provideaccess to dispensing communication channel 16. Preferably, the modemwould be modular and replaceable so that dispensing computer can utilizealternative communication technology and dispensing communication modesas they become available in the home.

The dispensing communication channel 16 and supplier communicationchannel 20 are any suitable communication channels which enabledispensing computer and supplier system 18 respectively, to communicatewith and transfer data to and from the order processing system 14. Thedispensing communication channel 16 extends beyond the home, using adigital subscriber line (DSL), fiber optics, satellites, or high speedcables. The dispensing communication channel 16 could also be atransmission control protocol (TCP) Internet Protocol (IP) Internetconnection or a cable or fiber optic connection.

All communications between the dispensing computer and order processingsystem 14, and between the order processing system 14 and the supplysystem 18 are preferably protected with suitable security measures, andpreferably a proprietary protocol. The proprietary protocol may includeany means for preventing unauthorized users from conducting acommunication between dispensing computer and order processing system14.

Dispensing Computer, Ordering Processing System and Supplier System

Referring now to FIGS. 5 and 6, the dispensing computer 24 preferablyincludes dispensing computer software 25 a which is run on thedispensing computer hardware 25 b to facilitate communication with theorder processing system 14 over a dispensing communication channel 16.

The order processing system 14 includes a processor or server 14 a,server communication software 14 b for communicating with the dispensingcomputer 24, a relational database 14 c connected to the server 18 a,database software (not shown) for accessing and storing information ondatabase 14 c, supplier software 14 d for communicating with thesuppliers, administrative software 14 e for handling the administrativefunctions of the order processing system, at least one and preferably aplurality of administrative terminals (not shown) and output devices(not shown) connected to the server over a computer network system suchas an Ethernet system. Processor or server 14 a may be any feasibleserver type although the preferred server type is Microsoft SQL Server.The relational database 14 c is adapted to collect and store dataregarding consumer usage and consumption of appliance supplies ingeographic areas. The administrative computers and one or more outputdevices enable administrative computer operators to access the server,make any necessary changes and to generate reports regarding the users,consumption, use and orders. Order processing system 14 receives theorders from the dispensing computer, stores various categories of usefuldata related to users, supplies and services and sends orders to theappropriate suppliers as discussed below.

Administrative computer operators use administrative computers which areloaded with server administrative software 14 e and supplier software 14d. Server administrative software 14 e provides a graphical userinterface which administrative computer operators use to access, use,format, manipulate and interact with the data available on database 14c. Preferably, administrative computer operators process orders andrespond to user needs regarding low appliance supply events andtechnical problems. Administrative computer operators determine theparticular products or services needed by a user, contact a supplier ofsuch products or services and direct the supplier to supply suchproducts or services. Administrative computer operators also generatevarious graphic and statistical reports, preferably general customerreports, customer invoices, consumption trend graphs, usage forecasts,postage, labels, and demographics, preferably appliance supply usage byzip code, area code, city, and state.

The suppliers may be the system implementor, or manufacturers,distributors or vendors of the appliance supply. As indicated above, thesuppliers preferably, but not necessarily, are located or have a placeof business near the users. Each supplier preferably has a suppliersystem 18 which communicates with the order processing system 14 throughthe supplier communication channel 20. The supplier system 18 includes aprocessor or server (not shown), server communication software (notshown) for communicating with the order processing system, at least oneadministrative terminal (not shown) connected to the server, andconventional output devices (not shown) for printing user supply andrepair orders and related documentation. Preferably, the supplier system18 includes a memory device or database for storing software or data.

The supplier system 18 obtains orders and obtains the relevant user datanecessary to deliver the supplies or services to the users. Supplierscan deliver the appliance supply containers directly to the user.Alternatively, suppliers can use an independent contractor such as theUnited Parcel Service, Federal Express or the postal service to deliverthe appliance supply containers to the user. In a further alternativeembodiment, the supplier can be a local manufacturer or supplier or cansupply local distributors with orders to process for delivery.

In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the orderprocessing system also preferably includes billing and payment softwarefor facilitating buffing users of the system and payments to thesuppliers. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, thesupply system includes billing and payment software for facilitatingbilling users of the system and payments to the implementor of the orderprocessing system.

During the operation of the distribution system 10 as discussed below,the levels of appliance supply decrease. Dispensing or appliancecomputer 24 monitors these supply levels, preferably by monitoring thetime the dispenser dispenses each appliance supply at a known flow rate.When the levels decrease to a certain amount, dispensing or appliancecomputer 24 automatically transmits an order to order processing system14. The dispensing or appliance computer 24 also monitors dispensingapparatus 28 for break downs or technical problems. If the dispensingapparatus 28 needs repair, dispensing computer 24 transmits an order toorder processing system 14.

At regular intervals and preferably at least once per day, the suppliersystem 18 communicates with the order processing system 14 to check forany new orders. If there is a new order, the supplier system 18 obtainsthe order and arranges for supplies to be delivered to the user or for arepair visit as requested.

It should be appreciated that the order processing system willpreferably be adapted to download updates to the dispensing software ofthe dispensing computer and updates to the supply software of the supplysystem. In one embodiment of the present invention, to allow for alarger number of users, the system uses telephone lines to communicateinformation. The gateway server is installed with a dial up modem thatwill enable it to communicate with the server in the order processingsystem. The communications systems are preferably modular to enable themodem to be supplemented with improved technology as it becomesavailable. The dispensing computer unit will communicate to the gatewayserver, at a minimum of once an hour. All communications to the serverof the order processing system preferably take place late at night tolessen the chance of using the user's telecommunications lines when theuser desires to use such lines.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the server 14 a of the orderprocessing system, as illustrated in FIG. 7 includes three main softwareapplications including: (a) an application that is responsible forcommunications with the gateway server wherein calls placed by thegateway server are answered and control turned over to the databaseapplication once communications have been established; (b) a databaseapplication which stores the information provided by the gateway serverto generate reports, trend graphs, usage forecasting, etc; and (c) agraphical user interface application for the server for making reportsor accessing data with the database.

In this embodiment, the gateway server 48 preferably includes: (a) agateway server application to initiate RF communications/polling withthe dispensing computer; and (b) a gateway server application toinitiate dial up communications with the server of the order processingsystem and upload information provided by the dispensing computer. Inthis embodiment, the dispensing computer is a 486 SBC with video andsound capability. The SBC has a provision for a Disk On Chip (DOC) flashdisk, which will contain the Windows CE operating system. The dispensingcomputer communicates serially to two devices. The communications takeplace on COM 3 and COM 4 at 9600 baud, one start bit, one stop bit, noparity, and 8 data bits.

In one embodiment, the device connected to COM 3 is a valve controlprocessor or VCP. The VCP is responsible for opening and closing valves(or solenoids) of the system under command of the CE-SBC. The VCP onlyspeaks when spoken to by the CE-SBC. The VCP is also responsible forkeeping usage totalizers for each of the supplies, supply canisters orcontainers. These totalizers are individually set or reset upon commandof the CE-SBC. The CE-SBC and the VCP communicate using a commadelimited, fixed field length, ASCII packet structure.

The CE-SBC preferably communicates a minimum of every five seconds toensure that if the VCP has corrupted data that the data can bereconstructed (send totalizers and current selection to VCP). If the VCPreceives a bad packet, it will ignore the packet and not respond, TheCE-SBC should then timeout and reseed the message, continuing thisprocess until a valid response has been received. If a VCP response hasnot been received within five seconds, a message should be displayed onthe status line of the display.

The device connected to COM 4 is the RF Modem or RFM. The RF Modem isused by the gateway server to poll the CE-SBC. The CE-SBC uses the RFMto communicate with the gateway server using a comma delimited ASCIIpacket structure.

The gateway server should communicate with the CE-SBC a minimum of everyfour hours. Communication starts with the gateway issuing an appropriatecommand. If the SBC status returned does not indicate a low supplywarning or a “cannot communicate with VSP” warning, then the totalizersare stored in the last totalizer read buffer and nothing more is done.If the gateway receives a low supply warning response from the CE-SBC,it will then, after storing away the totalizers, issue an appropriatecommand. Upon storing the usage information, it will then initiatecommunications with the server of the order processing system. If a“cannot communicate with VSP” warning is indicated, then the gatewaywill also initiate communication with the server of the order processingsystem.

If at any time the gateway server receives a bad packet it will ignorethe packet and not respond. The gateway should then timeout and reseedthe message, preferably continuing this process a maximum of four times.If after the fourth time, a good packet has not been received, thegateway preferably waits for the next scheduled communication session totry again. If a valid packet still has not been received after thesecond communications session, the gateway server preferably notifiesthe server of the order processing system.

If the CE-SBC receives the gateway status indicated “unable to contactthe central server,” then a message should be displayed on the statusline of the display. The gateway server communicates with the server ofthe order processing system on demand or at a minimum of every threedays. All communication with the central server is preferably initiatedby the gateway server.

If at any time the server of the order processing system receives a badpacket it will ignore the packet and not respond. The gateway servershould then timeout and reseed the message, continuing this process amaximum of four times. If after the fourth time a good packet has notbeen received, the gateway preferably waits for the next scheduledcommunication session to try again. If the server of the orderprocessing system has not received a good data packet within three days,a warning is preferably issued on the server of the order processingsystem.

In this embodiment, a back office application is in charge of answeringcalls for the server of the order processing system. This application isalso responsible for populating an access database with informationprovided by the gateway server. This application may change to aclient/server SQL application. The application will display theinformation from the last call. Two database tables will be used,customer and dispenser data.

Operation of the System

Referring now to FIGS. 8, 8A and 8B, to use the system 10 of the presentinvention, a user must purchase an appliance containing the dispensingapparatus 28 as indicated by block 200, or purchase an applianceconversion kit as discussed below. After the appliance is delivered andinstalled (or the conversion kit is installed), the user opens anaccount with the system implementor who operates the order processingsystem as indicated by block 202. The user preferably opens an accountwith the system implementor using a registration process providedthrough the user interface panel. The touch screen interface panelpreferably displays a keyboard through which the user registers. Theregistration process includes entering user information, supplyselections and user credit card information. During the registrationprocess, the entry of the zip code of the user will preferably, but notnecessarily, determine the supplier of the products and supplies for theuser. It should be appreciated that alternative registration processesmay be employed in the system of the present invention such asregistration by telephone, mail or the internet (via a stand-alone ornetworked internet access device).

It should be appreciated that appliance manufacturers such as GeneralElectric and Whirlpool are currently working on incorporating computersystems into their appliances. Such computer systems include interfacesand processors. The present invention could be incorporated into suchsystems. For instance, GE is currently planning to use a Windows CEcomputer interface architecture and Whirlpool is currently planning touse a Sun Microsystems-Java architecture. It should be appreciated thatthe present invention may be adapted for either system or any othersuitable appliance computer system.

The dispensing computer 24 may be initialized or configured duringinstallation or during the first communication with the order processingsystem 14 during which the order processing system 14 transmits set-updata or files to the dispensing or appliance computer 24 as indicated byblock 204. The set-up data or files preferably include appliance supplyinformation, computer programs, graphic files, advertisements andmessages as described above. The registration process described above ispart of the initial set-up process.

During the initialization process or the registration process, the userwill order a plurality of appliance supplies and will need to agree to aprice for the supplies. The user interface will provide pricinginformation to the user for enabling the user to make the determinationas to which supplies the user will order. It should be appreciated thatthe prices may be different in different regions and that the suppliersor local distributors may need to set the prices. This information ispreferably delivered to the user via the order processing system. Itshould also be appreciated that the prices may change. The system willpreferably send any price change message to the dispensing computer anddisplay the price changes to the user in the message screen or interfacediscussed above. The user will need to agree to the price changes. Theuser's agreement to the price changes is transmitted to the orderprocessing system. It should also be appreciated that the orderprocessing system may provide a web site and other communication meanssuch as a toll-free number as discussed above to enable the user todetermine prices, obtain help or find out more information about the useof the system,

In one alternative embodiment of the present invention, the dispensingor appliance computer 24 generates a warning message if, after theelapse of a pre-determined warning time, the dispensing or appliancecomputer 24 has not communicated with order processing system 14 asindicated by diamond 206. The warning time may be any period of time,though preferably it is three days. The warning message appears onscreen 34 to alert the user of a communication problem, as indicated byblock 208. The warning message may be in audio, video or textual form orany combination thereof.

In the alternative embodiment, after generation of a warning message,either the shutdown time elapses without a communication or acommunication occurs before shutdown time elapses. Shutdown time may beany period of time greater than the warning time, though preferablyseven days. As indicated by diamond 210, if the shutdown time elapseswithout a communication, the appliance supply distribution anddispensing system 10 shuts down as indicated by block 212. If acommunication occurs before the elapse of warning time or shutdown time,a subsequent communication can be initiated.

The user may initiate a communication with the order processing system14 to place an order for supplies, to change the type of appliancesupply the user desires or for any other suitable purpose as describedin detail above and as indicated by block 214. The dispensing orappliance computer 24 may also initiate communications with the orderprocessing system 14 based on its monitoring of the dispenser anddispensing apparatus.

The dispensing or appliance computer 24 determines if there is a lowappliance supply for any one of the plurality of appliance supplies inthe appliance, or a technical, electrical or mechanical problem with thedispensing apparatus or dispensing computer, as respectively indicatedby blocks 218, 220 and 222, The dispensing computer communicates theseevents to the order processing system. Additionally, at regularintervals (preferably every seven days), the dispensing or appliancecomputer communicates the status of the dispensing apparatus (includingusage or supply levels) and the dispensing or appliance computer to theorder processing system, as indicated by block 216.

Preferably, a low appliance supply event exists when the appliancesupply is within a certain amount of days of depletion based on theuser's average consumption or use, preferably in the range of two tothree days as discussed below. It should be appreciated that theappliance supply can be any type of supply, including, withoutlimitation, liquids, solids such as powders, gases and replacementparts. It should also be appreciated that the dispensing computer canorder appliance supply at any predetermined time, as otherwise set bythe implementor or as ordered by the user.

In one embodiment of the present invention where supplies are mixed orcombined, a predetermined amount of one supply is delivered to the userwith the other supply based on the use of the second supply. In analternative embodiment of the present invention, the first supply levelis directly monitored, the dispensing computer monitors the time thefirst supply release mechanism is open in addition to monitoring thetime second supply is dispensed. The dispensing computer determines thefirst supply level from this data. It should be appreciated that thedispensing computer is adapted to calculate use of first supply such asa gas for powering pumps or for other purposes such as pressuring drinksupply canisters in this calculation.

For any embodiment, a technical problem event 222 exists at any time thedispensing apparatus 28 (or appliance) is in need of repair, or there isa communication problem between the dispensing computer and the orderprocessing system 14.

Referring now also to FIG. 9, the communications between the dispensingcomputer and the order processing system include predetermined basicinformation generally including the identification of the dispensingapparatus 28, the amount of appliance supply and the purpose for thecommunication. Preferably, such information will include at a minimum,the basic data 300 identified in FIG. 9, which includes: (i) adispensing apparatus unit identification 302; (ii) an appliance supplyidentification 304; (iii) the appliance supply amount 306; (iv) theevent identification 308; (v) usage information 310; and (vi) set-upfiles or other information.

Preferably the average daily usage is calculated for each appliancesupply and used to re-order appliance supply to maintain an adequatesupply for the user at all times. In the refrigerator embodimentdiscussed below, preferably the dispensing computer also calculates thetotal carbonated and non-carbonated drink supply to maintain CO₂ usageand to maintain an adequate CO₂ supply. In the embodiment having one CO₂container which is used for several beverages, if the beverages are usedevenly, the CO₂ supply will be depleted before any one of the individualdrink supplies. The dispensing computer accounts for this and all otherappliance supply use scenarios. Accordingly, it is preferable to have atleast one spare CO₂ supply container maintained by the user.

The dispensing computer will track the canister levels for eachappliance supply that is installed in the dispensing apparatus. This isaccomplished by tracking the time in seconds each appliance supply isdispensed. Using the constant flow rate of a dispensed appliance supplyalong with the time the appliance supply has dispensed, a relativelyaccurate canister level can be calculated when required. The constantflow rate is given by knowing the regulated psi and inner diameter ofthe dispensing hose or line.

In another embodiment, the usage information 310 includes a modifiedthirty day average of the amount of each supply dispensed. Inparticular, the average daily consumption is based upon normal useduring a period of time such as thirty twenty-four hour periods.Abnormal periods of usage which may occur when the user has an event orwhen the user is on vacation are preferably ignored in this calculation.The basic data 300 is transmitted to the order processing system 14 andstored in the appropriate database 14 c as indicated by block 224.

When a communication is caused by a low appliance supply, the dispensingcomputer 24 transmits an order for the appliance supply to the orderprocessing system 14 as indicated in block 226. This order includes theappliance supply identification 304 and preferably the number ofcontainers of appliance supply needed.

In one embodiment of the invention, the system 10 prevents the user frominstalling supplies which were not ordered by the dispensing computer24. In this embodiment, the user must enter into the dispensing computer24 an appliance supply authorization code which was included in thesupply shipment. The appliance supply distribution and dispensing system10 will not dispense any new appliance supply unless the appliancesupply authorization code has been entered. The order processing system14 generates and stores an appliance supply authorization code for suchorder and transmits the code to the dispensing computer when the orderprocessing system receives the order. Alternatively, the dispensingcomputer could create the code or be preloaded with codes. When theappliance supply is prepared for delivery to a user, the appliancesupply authorization code is associated with the appliance supplycontainers. Preferably, the appliance supply authorization code is atwelve digit number encoded on the containers of the appliance supply.

In another embodiment, the dispensing computer tracks the amount ofappliance supply that is ordered from the order processing system. Ifthe appliance supply installed into the dispenser is not the appliancesupply that was ordered or if the amount of a particular type ofappliance supply exceeds the amount that was ordered, the dispensingapparatus may be adapted to shut down or display an error message. Onereason for tracking of supplies is to verify that the appliance supplyoriginated from a legitimate source. This will prevent the user fromobtaining appliance supply from unauthorized third party sources, Ifmore appliance supply is installed into the dispenser compared to theamount ordered, this would indicate that supplies are being obtainedfrom outside sources.

In one embodiment of the present invention, each appliance supply has aunique four digit appliance supply ID. The first two digits indicate thetype of appliance supply classification and the second two digitsindicate the appliance supply within the classification. These IDs areassigned by the system implementor. When the user selects an appliancesupply from the selection screen, they are indirectly selecting theappliance supply canister with the associated appliance supply IDnumber. When the CE-SBC informs the gateway server of the class IDs, italso sends the associated appliance supply IDs along. If a user changesfrom one appliance supply to another appliance supply, dispensingcomputer will know that one of the appliance supply canisters is to bereplaced upon the next order.

In one embodiment when the user is attempting to change an emptycanister, the user will press a change canister button and the CE-SBCwill automatically lock the dispenser and display the appropriatemessage in the bottom status bar. Once the user has made the switch anddouble checks all the hose connections, the user will press the OKbutton, the CE-SBC will then unlock the dispenser and remove the statusmessage, If the user at any time cancels the operation by any means, theCE-SBC will also unlock the dispenser.

When a communication is caused by a technical problem, dispensingcomputer 24 transmits an order for repair service to the orderprocessing system which is also as indicated by block 226. This orderincludes a service identification and an alarm. The serviceidentification includes an identification of the specific type ofservice needed, and preferably a numeric or alphanumeric codeidentification. The service identification also includes a descriptionof the service needed. The alarm alerts the user that a technicalproblem has occurred as indicated by block 230. The alarm is preferablya visual or textual message generated on panel 34.

As indicated by block 228 in FIG. 8, when dispensing or appliancecomputer 24 transmits an automatic order to order processing system 14,a process flag is set as false and stored in the database 14 c. Asindicated by block 232 and discussed in detail below, the process flagis set as true when the supplies or services requested by the triggeringevent have been provided or rendered to the user.

In all communications, the dispensing or appliance computer 24 transmitsthe basic data 300 to the order processing system 14 through thedispensing communication channel 16. Dispensing or appliance computer 24also transmits specific data 312 to the order processing system 14,associated with specific activities, as indicated by block 234. Serveror processor 14 b inputs the basic data 300 and specific data 312 in thedatabase 14 c. In certain communications, as indicated by block 236, theorder processing system 14 will transmit certain data, images andelectronic files to the dispensing computer 24. Graphic images arepreferably transmitted using JPEG type files, and movies are preferablytransmitted using MPEG type files as indicated above.

As further illustrated in FIG. 9, database 14 c preferably storesseveral types of data 413 including user data 314, supplier data 316,dispensing apparatus data 318, dispensing computer setting data 320,appliance supply data 322, event data 324 and service data 326.

User data 314 preferably includes a user identification code, a supplieridentification code, the company name if the user is a business, adispensing apparatus unit identification code, the last name of theuser, the first name of the user, the street address of the user, andthe city, state, zip code and phone number of the user. User data 314may also include other information such as demographics on individualhousehold members, visitors and others in addition to data about theuser who opened an account to use the appliance supply distribution anddispensing system 10.

Supplier data 316 preferably includes a supplier identification code andthe company name of the supplier. Dispensing apparatus data 318preferably includes a dispensing apparatus unit identification code, aplurality of appliance supply identifications and associated appliancesupply levels for each appliance supply dispensed by the dispensingapparatus and the dispensing computer setting identification code, Thenumber of appliance supply levels will depend on the number of appliancesupply containers used by the dispensing apparatus and the number ofdifferent uses made of the appliance. This information will be containedin the dispensing computer and transferred to the order processingsystem during initialization. Dispensing computer setting data 320preferably includes a dispensing computer setting identification codeand a dispensing computer setting. Appliance supply or concentrate datapreferably includes an appliance supply identification code, theappliance supply name and the logo of the appliance supply.

Event data 324 preferably includes: (i) an identification code of eventsfor a low appliance supply and a technical problem; (ii) a date and timestamp for recording the event occurrence; (iii) the type of event; (iv)the number of appliance supply containers needed; (v) the appliancesupply authorization code; (vi) a service identification code; and (vii)a process flag (true or false).

Service data 324 preferably includes a service identification code and adescription of the service. It should be appreciated that the basic dataand additional data recited above is preferred and that other data couldbe included in the appliance supply distribution and dispensing system10 of the present invention.

If the user initiated the communication session as indicated in block214 in FIG. 8, the basic data and the additional specific data istransmitted to the order processing system and stored in database 14 c,as indicated by block 238. The administrative computer operators may beemployed by the dispensing system implementor to provide customerservice and generally manage the data on database 14 c. Administrativecomputer operators may obtain specific information about a user byaccessing the database, as indicated by block 239, or reviewingcompleted product registration forms, speaking with the user over thetelephone, e-mail or through other communication methods. Theadministrative computer operators may add to database 14 c specific datawhich they gather, as indicated by block 236.

When the order processing system 14 receives an appliance supply order,the order processing system 14 preferably communicates the order tosupplier system 18 designated to serve the particular user.Alternatively, when such an order is received by the order processingsystem 14, an administrator may communicate the order to a suppliersystem 18 designated to serve a particular user as indicated by block238.

If a user places an order for service instead of supplies, theadministrator contacts the user and schedules a service date asindicated by block diamond 240 and block 242. A supplier or third partyrepair service may render the service as indicated by block 244. Afterthe repair services have been rendered, process flag is set as true, asindicated by block 246. Repair services are similarly scheduled,rendered and processed if the dispensing computer alone detects atechnical problem, as indicated by blocks 248, 250 and 232.

The supplier system 18 facilitates the delivery of the ordered supply,to the user, as discussed below. The system places the order or makesthe supply needs known to the appropriate supplier, as indicated byblock 251, One of the supply systems delivers the supplies to the useras also indicated by block 251 and the user then installs the appliancesupply in the appliance. If the monitoring system or dispensing orappliance computer 24 determines that the appliance supply delivered andinstalled corresponds to the appliance supply ordered as indicated byblock 252 and diamond 254, the appliance supply distribution anddispensing system 10 continues to operate, as indicated by block 256.

If the installed appliance supply does not correspond to the order, thedispensing apparatus 24 may be adapted to shut down as indicated byblock 212. When a shut down occurs, electrical power is blocked so thatthe dispensing apparatus 28 will not dispense any appliance supply.

Supplier system will use a reliable deliverer (not shown) to deliver theappliance supply containers to the user. Deliverer may be an employee ofsupplier or a reliable outside package delivery company such as theUnited Parcel Service, Federal Express, the postal service or othersimilar delivery organizations. Deliveries will be made to the place ofdelivery within a certain delivery time, preferably within three daysafter an order or communication is transmitted to the order processingsystem. Preferably each delivery of appliance supply includes at leasttwo containers of appliance supply.

Dispensing or appliance computer 24 monitors the amount of each type ofappliance supply dispensed and calculates the amount of each appliancesupply used. Each time an order or low appliance supply message istransmitted to the order processing system 14, dispensing computer 24tracks the amount of appliance supply ordered.

It should also be appreciated that a conversion kit may be used toconvert a standard appliance into an appliance having the dispensingapparatus of the present invention. Such a conversion kit may include astand-alone unit which has a separate power source and various fluidlines connecting to the appliance.

It should also be appreciated that the system could be adapted todispense concentrated, non-concentrated, ready-to-drink or pre-mixedappliance supplies such as milk, beer, wine and juices for refrigeratorembodiments, liquid or powder detergents for washing machine embodimentsand other supplies for other appliances. As mentioned above, it shouldbe appreciated that any embodiment of the appliance supply distributionand dispensing system could be adapted for a powder or solid drinksupply.

Furthermore, although the system of the present invention is describedherein at times as including a supply dispensing computer and a supplydispenser, it should be appreciated that the present invention caninclude any type of supply monitoring or appliance computer. Moreover,the system need not include a supply dispenser or any type of dispenserbecause the system can support appliance supplies which cannot bedispensed. Examples of such appliance supplies are replacement parts,such as filters, batteries or light bulbs. Other examples are watersofteners and other products which are immersed in water and whichslowly dissolve with time, The system of the present invention can beadapted to monitor the use and depletion of these types of supplies andany other type of appliance supply.

Refrigerator Embodiment

As illustrated in FIG. 10, in one embodiment of the present invention,the appliance 12 f which houses the appliance supply dispensingapparatus 28 is a conventional refrigerator which includes arefrigeration compartment (not shown), a refrigeration compartment door400, a freezer compartment (not shown) and a freezer compartment door402. Refrigerator 12 f may be constructed in various shapes, sizes,designs and models including side-by-side door models as illustrated inFIG. 10 and upper and lower door models (not shown). Refrigerator 12 fpreferably includes standard mechanisms and cooling systems present incommercially available appliances. However, refrigerator 14 a isspecifically constructed, structurally and electrically, to house andaccommodate a supply dispensing apparatus 28 for refrigerators and itsfunctions and use as described herein.

Referring now to FIGS. 10 and 11, the supply dispensing apparatus 28 forrefrigerators includes: (i) a supply dispensing computer or processor24; (ii) a user interface panel or terminal 34; (iii) a dispenser orbeverage mixing mechanism 404; (iv) a drink supply mechanism orapparatus 406; (v) a CO₂ supply mechanism or apparatus 408; (vi) a watersupply mechanism or apparatus 410; (vi) a housing 412 for storing aplurality of containers 414 and at least one CO₂ supply container 416;(vii) a plurality of electrical communication lines 418; and (viii) aplurality of water, drink supply and CO₂ supply fluid communicationlines 420. These components, including the CO₂ supply mechanism 408 anddrink supply mechanism 406, are preferably mounted at suitable places inrefrigerator 12 f; however, it should be appreciated that one or more ofthese components could be mounted in a housing adjacent to therefrigerator in accordance with the present invention.

In one refrigerator embodiment of the present invention, the dispenser404, the dispensing computer 24 and the panel 34 are mounted in thefreezer compartment door 402, and the housing 412 for the drink supplycontainers 414 and the CO₂ supply container 416 is mounted in therefrigeration compartment of the refrigerator 12 f as generallyillustrated in FIG. 10. This embodiment enables the dispenser 404 todispense ice from the door 402 of the freezer compartment as inconventional refrigerators and enables the drink supply containers 414to be maintained at the desired temperature in the refrigerationcompartment. However, this embodiment requires that the drink supplycontainers 414 be connected to the dispenser 404 through a plurality offluid communication lines 420 and electrical communication lines 418suitably mounted between the refrigeration compartment and the freezercompartment door 402. If the housing 412 is mounted in the refrigerationcompartment door 400, the fluid communication lines 420 and electricalcommunication lines 418 must be suitably mounted between therefrigeration compartment door 400 and the freezer compartment door 402through the refrigeration compartment and the freezer compartment.

In alternative refrigerator embodiments of the present invention, thehousing 412 for the drink supply containers 414 and CO₂ supply container416 is mounted in an insulated area in the freezer compartment or thefreezer compartment door 402 of the refrigerator. The insulatedcompartment prevents the drink supply from freezing due to the lowertemperatures in the freezer compartment. The embodiment in which thehousing 412 is located in an insulated area in the bottom of the freezerdoor 402 provides the additional advantage of a direct connectionbetween the dispenser and the drink supply and CO₂ supply mechanismswithout having one or more fluid communication lines 420 or electricalcommunication lines 418 extending from the freezer compartment to thefreezer compartment door 402. Moreover, this embodiment may beadvantageous because freezer doors are generally less utilized and thisembodiment facilitates a more direct connection with less parts and lesspotential problems (such as failures) between the drink supply anddispenser. This embodiment further facilitates a lower cost ofmanufacture.

The drink supply containers 414 preferably hold one liter of drinksupply as discussed in more detail below. The drink supply containers414 and CO₂ gas supply container 416 are suitably sized to fit withinthe housing 412. The housing 412 is preferably adapted to hold sixone-liter drink supply containers 414 and at least one seventy-eightgram CO₂ supply container 416, canister or cartridge. One refrigeratorembodiment of the housing 412 would take up less space than in therefrigerator compartment or the insulated freezer area than suchcontainers.

In this refrigerator embodiment of the present invention, the systemenables a user to better utilize the space in the user's refrigerator.In particular, in current refrigerators, the typical user has aplurality of beverage containers including carbonated and non-carbonateddrink.

More specifically, in one refrigerator embodiment of the presentinvention, the water supply mechanism 410 includes a conventionalincoming water supply 422 connected to the refrigerator 12 f. Theincoming water supply 422 is connected to a suitable water pump 424which regulates the water pressure as necessary. Preferably, the waterpump 424 is a commercially available Sureflo™ 115V AC pump, although anysuitable pump which regulates the water pressure to at least one-hundredpounds per square inch is acceptable. The water pump 424 is connected toa two-way valve 426 which connects the water supply 422 to a waterpressure regulator 428, a holding tank 430 and a carbonating tank 432.

The water pressure regulator 428 decreases the water pressure to apreferred manageable water pressure of fifty pounds per square inch. Thepreferred water pressure regulator is a Sureflo™ 50 PSI regulator,although any standard regulator may be employed. The holding tank 430holds a reserve water supply and is connected to the dispenser 404. Thewater in the holding tank 430 is chilled and maintained at a relativelycool temperature by the refrigerator. When water is dispensed or morethan one serving of drink is dispensed at any one time, the dispenser404 uses the water from the holding tank 430. Alternatively, the watersupply 422 may bypass the holding tank and be connected to thedispenser.

The water supply mechanism 410 also includes a carbonating tank 432which mixes the water from the water supply 422 with the CO₂ gas fromthe CO₂ supply mechanism 408 to create a carbonated water supplyconnected to the dispenser 404. Carbonating tank 432 is any type ofcontainer which can withstand the pressure needed to carbonate water atthe desired pressures. Carbonating tank 432 includes a conventionalsafety valve (not shown) which exhausts to the atmosphere whenever thepressure inside carbonating tank 432 exceeds a predetermined pressurelimit. The safety valve doses when the pressure inside carbonating tank432 is below a predetermined pressure limit. Carbonating tank 432 alsoincludes a conventional back flow preventer (not shown) which preventscarbonated water supply from entering the water supply 422. Accordingly,the water supply mechanism 410 supplies water to the dispenser 404 asnecessary.

The CO₂ supply mechanism 408 includes a housing for preferably storingCO₂ supply containers and in an alternative embodiment, a plurality ofCO₂ containers and a suitable mechanism for releasing the CO₂ from theCO₂ supply containers. The CO₂ supply mechanism 408 which provides CO₂gas includes a CO₂ gas manifold 434, one or more CO₂ gas containers orcylinders 416, and a CO₂ pressure regulator 436 connected by a pluralityof gas lines 438. The CO₂ gas supply cylinders, cartridges or containers416 safely store CO₂ gas at a range of eight hundred to one thousandpounds per square inch. Preferably, CO₂ gas containers 416 hold lessthan one hundred grams of CO₂ gas. In one preferred embodiment of thepresent invention the CO₂ containers hold seventy-eight grams or less ofCO₂. This size CO₂ cartridge will on normal use be sufficient forcarbonating the drinks made from two one-liter drink supply containers.Additionally, applicable shipping restrictions restrict the weight ofindividual canisters of CO₂ gas or other pressured gas containers bynormal delivery services. It should be appreciated that the shippingregulations allow a plurality of CO₂ containers, each holdingseventy-eight grams or less of CO₂ gas, to be shipped in the same box orpackaging. Thus, several CO₂ containers can be shipped to the user in asingle package along with the drink supply containers. It should also beappreciated that the CO₂ container size and pressure requirements andmethods of shipment could vary in accordance with the present invention.

In one refrigerator embodiment of the present invention, the CO₂ gas ispreferably stored in CO₂ gas cylinders 26 b at relatively high pressuressuch as eight hundred pounds per square inch and the CO₂ gas cylindersare connected to a CO₂ gas manifold 434 which equalizes the pressure inthe CO₂ gas cylinders. The CO₂ gas manifold 434 is preferably adapted tohold CO₂ gas at a maximum pressure of one thousand pounds per squareinch, preferably eight hundred pounds per square inch.

The manifold 434 is preferably connected to one or more CO₂ gas lines438 which route the CO₂ gas from CO₂ gas manifold 434 to the CO₂pressure regulator 436. The CO₂ pressure regulator 436 preferably is aconventional regulator capable of regulating or decreasing the pressureof the CO₂ gas to a reduced CO₂ pressure in the approximate pressurerange of forty to sixty pounds per square inch and preferably fifty-fivepounds per square inch.

In one refrigerator embodiment of the present invention, the dispensingapparatus includes a two-way CO, valve (not shown) in the gas line 438which connects the manifold 434 to the carbonating tank 432 and thedrink supply pumps 440 as discussed below. The CO₂ gas routed tocarbonating tank 432 enters carbonating tank 432 at its reduced CO₂pressure and mixes with the water supply at an increased water pressurein order to produce a carbonated water supply.

CO₂ gas becomes excited as its temperature rises. When carbonated drinksare dispensed and poured, the CO₂ gas escapes in a “fizz” which detractsfrom the taste and pleasure of carbonated drinks. The lower thetemperature of the carbonated water supply, the less CO₂ gas escapes.Therefore, it is preferable to use a cold carbonation process employinga cold plate 442 to rapidly decrease the temperature of the carbonatedwater supply, The cold plate 442 is preferably connected to thecarbonated water supply to chill the carbonated water as it exits thecarbonating tank 432. The cold plate 442 preferably includes one or moremetal tubes which are routed through a metal block. Preferably the metaltubes are made of stainless steel and the metal block is made ofaluminum or steel. Cold plate 442 may be of any suitable size, thoughthe preferable size is eight×twelve×two inches. Whether or not a coldplate 432 is included in dispensing apparatus 28, the carbonated watersupply is routed to dispenser 404.

The drink supply mechanism 406 supplies a plurality of drink syrups fromthe plurality of drink supply containers 414. The drink supply mechanismincludes a housing for storing a plurality of drink supply containersand at least one pump or other suitable mechanism for drawing the drinksupply from the drink supply containers 414. In one embodiment of thepresent invention, at least one and preferably a plurality of drinksupply pumps 440 are connected to the drink supply containers 414. Thedrink supply pumps 440 operate on CO₂ gas in the range of zero toseventy pounds per square inch and create a vacuum to draw drink syrupfrom the drink supply containers 414 in a conventional manner. Drinksupply pumps 440 have one or more inlets for CO₂ gas and drink syrup inaddition to one or more outlets for CO₂ gas and drink syrup. Thedispensing computer 24 is electrically connected to and operates aconventional CO₂ release mechanism (not shown) when a user presses oneof the drink selections on the primary interface 40 a. Thus, in oneembodiment of the present invention, each drink supply container isconnected to a pump which is adapted to draw the drink syrup through thefluid communication lines to the dispenser when the user request one ofthe drinks by touching the drink logo on the touch screen. In analternative embodiment, the pumps are directly electrically connected tothe dispensing computer. These embodiments preferably include acollapsible plastic bag in a box (known in the industry as a bag-in-boxor BIB.). The plastic bag collapses as drink syrup is drawn out of thebag. In this embodiment of the present invention, the plastic bag drinksupply container is protected by a cardboard box.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the dispensingapparatus does not include pumps for the drink supply containers. Inthis alternative embodiment, the cap of the drink supply containerincludes a gas supply inlet tube and a drink supply outlet tube. Whenthe dispenser is activated, the CO₂ gas is forced into the drink supplycontainer through the gas inlet tube and the drink supply is forced outof the container through the drink supply outlet tube. The pressure ofthe CO₂ forced into the drink supply container is approximately five toten pounds per square inch (“psi”), and accordingly, does not providesufficient pressure to carbonate the drink supply. The present inventionthus contemplates a pumpless system for facilitating the supply of drinksupply to the dispenser.

The drink supply container of this refrigerator embodiment of thepresent invention could be any suitable container. In one alternativepreferred refrigerator embodiment, each container is a one-liter plasticbottle similar to conventional one-liter plastic soft-drink bottles. Aone-liter drink supply bottle will produce approximately two hundred andeighty-eight ounces of soft drinks (based on a five water to one syrupratio) which is roughly equal to a case of or twenty-four twelve ouncecans of soft drink. For other drinks such as juices where the ratio ofjuice to water is higher (Le., three to one), a one-liter drink supplywill produce approximately one hundred and seventy-two ounces.

Referring back to FIG. 11, the reserve water supply, the carbonatedwater supply and drink syrup are routed to the dispenser 404. Thedispenser 404 includes a plurality of relatively small tubes orpassageway (not shown) which carry the carbonated water supply, reservewater supply and drink syrup to a dispensing valve (not shown).Dispenser 404 may be any suitable dispenser having a system of tubesleading to a valve or outlet, although the dispenser is preferablysolenoid activated. This dispenser preferably includes eight tubes andeight solenoids which includes one solenoid for each of the six drinksupply containers, one solenoid for carbonated water and one solenoidfor non-carbonated water. Accordingly, two solenoids are opened todispense a drink as the drink is mixed or carbonated on the fly.

An alternative refrigerator embodiment of the present invention couldinclude one or more mechanical dispensing buttons for dispensing drinksmounted on the order panel or adjacent to the dispenser. Dispensingbuttons are electrically connected to butterflies which are connected todispensing valves. When a user pushes a dispensing button, theassociated butterfly opens the associated dispensing valve to dispensethe water or type of drink corresponding to the user's selection. Whenthe user pushes a dispensing button for a drink, butterflies operatedispensing valves, and the appropriate drink supply and the carbonatedwater supply flow into the nozzle of the dispenser. Drink supply andcarbonated water supply are mixed inside the nozzle.

A specific carbonated water supply to drink supply ratio or brix must bemet in order for the drink to provide the proper flavor and pleasure.For soft drinks, the preferred brix of carbonated water supply to drinksupply is five to one. For juices, the preferred brix of carbonatedwater supply to drink supply is three to one.

One refrigerator embodiment of the present invention contemplates anautobrix system or automatic brixing. The automatic brixing system wouldenable the user to readily switch between carbonated and non-carbonatedbeverage supplies. Another embodiment of the present inventioncontemplates a manual brix adjustment system. In a manual system, if adrink selection changes from carbonated to non-carbonated, a technicianmay need to adjust the manual system by screwing or unscrewing flowcontrol screws located in the dispenser in a conventional manner.

Washing Machine

One washing machine embodiment of the present invention includes adispenser, detergent supply mechanism and a plurality of commerciallyavailable pumps, tanks, regulators, valves and fluid lines which co-actto provide and dispense one or more detergents. It should be appreciatedthat the structure and components of the dispensing apparatus could varyin accordance with the present invention.

Although not shown, the dispensing apparatus housed in any appliancecould include a bar code reader or other label recognition system whichreads a bar code or other label on supply containers. The bar codes orother labels would include pertinent information regarding the supply.When the user replaces the supply, the bar code reader would read thebar code or label and would know that a new or replacement supply isbeing placed in the housing. The dispensing or appliance computer canthen update the supply tracking data. The supply containers willpreferably come with detailed instructions which describe how the usershould replace the container and which containers to replace.

While the present invention has been described in connection with whatis presently considered to be the most practical and preferredembodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited tothe disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary is intended to covervarious modifications and equivalent arrangements included within thespirit and scope of the claims. It is thus to be understood thatmodifications and variations in the present invention may be madewithout departing from the novel aspects of this invention as defined inthe claims, and that this application is to be limited only by the scopeof the claims.

1-17. (canceled)
 18. An appliance comprising: a housing; a dispensersupported by the housing; a water supply mechanism supported by thehousing and connected to the dispenser; a drink supply mechanismsupported by the housing and connected to the dispenser, said drinksupply mechanism configured to removably hold a plurality of drinksupply containers; a user interface panel supported by the housing, saiduser interface panel including a touch screen; and a computer supportedby the housing and connected to the user interface panel and at leastone of: the dispenser, the water supply mechanism, and the drink supplymechanism, said computer configured to: (a) cause the user interfacepanel to display a plurality of different images, each image associatedwith a different one of a plurality of different drink supplies in theplurality of drink supply containers held by the drink supply mechanism,wherein the drink supply in each of the drink supply containers is aconcentrate, (b) receive, via the touch screen of the user interfacepanel, an input from a user of a selection of one of said plurality ofdifferent displayed images, (c) after receiving the input from the userof the selected one of said plurality of different displayed images,cause the dispenser to dispense a beverage corresponding to the selectedone of said plurality of different displayed images, (d) for each drinksupply container held by the drink supply mechanism, transmit, to aremote computer, drink supply data relating to an amount of drink supplydispensed from said drink supply container for a designated time period,and (e) transmit, to the remote computer, appliance data related to theappliance.
 19. The appliance of claim 18, wherein said computer isconfigured to cause the user interface panel to simultaneously displaythe plurality of different images.
 20. The appliance of claim 18,wherein said computer is configured to cause the user interface panel tosequentially display the plurality of different images.
 21. Theappliance of claim 18, wherein said computer is configured to cause theuser interface panel to display the drink supply data for each drinksupply container.
 22. The appliance of claim 18, wherein for each drinksupply container held by the drink supply mechanism, the designated timeperiod is a calendar day.
 23. The appliance of claim 18, wherein foreach drink supply container held by the drink supply mechanism, thedesignated time period is a twenty-four hour period of time.
 24. Theappliance of claim 18, wherein for each drink supply container held bythe drink supply mechanism, the drink supply data includes a number ofuses of drink supply dispensed from said drink supply container duringthe designated time period.
 25. The appliance of claim 18, wherein foreach drink supply container held by the drink supply mechanism, thedrink supply data includes an amount of drink supply dispensed from saiddrink supply container per user.
 26. The appliance of claim 18, whereinthe appliance data includes an identification of the appliance.
 27. Theappliance of claim 18, wherein the appliance data includes a geographiclocation of the appliance.
 28. The appliance of claim 27, wherein thegeographic location is a geographical region.
 29. The appliance of claim18, wherein the housing includes a first compartment and a secondcompartment.
 30. The appliance of claim 29, wherein the user interfacepanel is supported by the first compartment.
 31. The appliance of claim30, wherein the drink supply mechanism is supported by the secondcompartment.
 32. The appliance of claim 29, wherein the drink supplymechanism is supported by the second compartment.
 33. The appliance ofclaim 29, wherein the first compartment is an upper compartment and thesecond compartment is a lower compartment.
 34. The appliance of claim18, wherein said computer is configured to automatically transmit, tothe remote computer, an order for at least one replacement drink supplycontainer.
 35. The appliance of claim 34, wherein the order includes anidentification of a drink supply type.
 36. The appliance of claim 34,wherein the order includes at least one replacement drink supplycontainer of a designated brand.
 37. The appliance of claim 34, whereinthe order includes a designated quantity of replacement drink supplycontainers.
 38. The appliance of claim 34, wherein the order includes anidentification of a location of the appliance for delivery of the atleast one replacement drink supply container.
 39. The appliance of claim34, wherein computer is configured to transmit the order when adesignated amount of the drink supply in at least one of the drinksupply containers held by the drink supply mechanism has been dispensed.40. An appliance comprising: a housing; a dispenser supported by thehousing; a water supply mechanism supported by the housing and connectedto the dispenser; a drink supply mechanism supported by the housing andconnected to the dispenser, said drink supply mechanism configured toremovably hold a plurality of drink supply containers; a user interfacepanel supported by the housing, said user interface panel including atouch screen; and a computer supported by the housing and connected tothe user interface panel and at least one of: the dispenser, the watersupply mechanism, and the drink supply mechanism, said computerconfigured to: (a) cause the user interface panel to display a pluralityof different images, each image associated with a different one of aplurality of different drink supplies in the plurality of drink supplycontainers held by the drink supply mechanism, wherein the drink supplyin each of the drink supply containers is a concentrate, (b) receive,via the touch screen of the user interface panel, an input from a userof a selection of one of said plurality of different displayed images,(c) after receiving the input from the user of the selected one of saidplurality of different displayed images, cause the dispenser to dispensea beverage corresponding to the selected one of said plurality ofdifferent displayed images, (d) transmit, to a remote computer,appliance data related to the appliance, and (e) automatically transmitto the remote computer an order for at least one replacement drinksupply container.
 41. The appliance of claim 40, wherein the orderincludes an identification of a drink supply type.
 42. The appliance ofclaim 40, wherein the order includes at least one replacement drinksupply container of a designated brand.
 43. The appliance of claim 40,wherein the order includes a designated quantity of replacement drinksupply containers.
 44. The appliance of claim 40, wherein the orderincludes an identification of a location of the appliance for deliveryof the at least one replacement drink supply container.
 45. Theappliance of claim 40, wherein computer is configured to transmit theorder when a designated amount of the drink supply in at least one ofthe drink supply containers held by the drink supply mechanism has beendispensed.